Opening day of trout season takes place on Saturday, April 14! As if rushing around getting all the gear, bait, and licenses ready wasn’t enough, we now have to remember to add a trout and salmon stamp to the laundry list of state privileges.

“Little price to pay to offset the cost of stocking and associated expenses, I guess,” said one angler.

“We don’t give enough already?” grunted another.

Based on those comments, it isn’t too difficult to guess who catches more fish. There’s always something flaring up a conversation when fishers gather—and not just during the prelude to opening day. We wouldn’t be anglers without something to talk about, be it good, bad, or indifferent.

Most of the time, though, the experiences on the water are what take center stage. These are the memorable events that brighten up a room of companions who may no longer fish the same waters, but perhaps crossed over. We remember the good times and those that caused someone to be the brunt of some foolishness. After all is said and done, laughter permeates the room, whether it’s in the local tackle shop, at a fireman’s breakfast, or stream side while anxiously waiting for 6 a.m.

Whether you’re a fly fisher or the conventional sort, there is always the traditionalist who starts off with his or her favorites. Then there are the non-conformists who are looking for something new, but never saw the inside of their fly or tackle box. That, in and of itself is enough to spark a conversation—or maybe even a debate.

The weather has definitely been a topic of conversation. The way 2018 has gone so far, there will enough to blame for a poor performance or, for that matter, justify a good outing. And when the big one gets away, there certainly will be enough trees and branches that have fallen during the storms to cause challenges and unfortunate break offs. Nevertheless, we will celebrate opening day with optimism and look forward to this year as the one that could yield a career best.

On the Water

We’re happy to say that spring is winning the struggle with winter as a few more breaths of the latter season passed with little impact. It seems like we have turned the corner and warmth is now in the offing. Inshore Long Island Sound water temperature have remained in the low 40s and are taking its time to climb. However, gale force winds created tenuous situations and sparked small craft warnings.

Blackfish (tautog) and winter flounder seasons both opened on April 1. Little was accomplished due to challenging weather conditions, although a few of the bays and inlets did manage to give up variable catches of flatties. Sandworms are getting a later start than usual due to the severe winter conditions and some transportation issues up north. However, clams will do the trick. Catches should improve, but for now, bigger and better catches will be pulled from deeper offshore waters until temps moderate.

Movement in the striped bass fishery continues to forge ahead. There is more action developing in the harbors and tidal rivers with catches being made on soft baits. Paddle tails, slugo-types, and select hard swimmers and jigs are generating hookups. Cut baits fished near the bottom are also being effective, but at the moment, are not as productive numbers wise.

All eyes will be on opening day of trout season. Waters are stocked with more fish on the way. Even the osprey have taken notice. Anticipate a chilly morning and, pending the weather, water and flows could be high and fast. In addition to your floaters and dries, be sure to have a few sinking lures and weighted flies. A little extra weight will most likely be needed for your scented baits, as well. Do not forget to obtain your trout and salmon stamp.

For those fishing bass lakes that also contain trout, possession is the rule and a stamp is not necessary. Just release any trout or salmon accidentally caught quickly and unharmed to avoid unexpected consequences. As an aside, species such as pickerel and perch that are normally found in lakes and ponds are feeding and being caught.

Big Day

Lines in at 6 a.m. for the opening day of trout season this Saturday. Registrations for the annual Codi and Bubba Memorial Trout Contest are coming down to the wire and will be accepted until 5:59 a.m. on Saturday, April 14. Prizes for the three heaviest trout caught anywhere and weighed at the shop. $5 gets you in and kids under 12 fish free when accompanied by a registered adult. It’s a good thing! Shop opens 4:30 a.m.

To our two boys, Codi and Bubba, who we remember during each year’s contest, our thoughts and prayers will always be with you. After all, you epitomized youth during your stay with us, fished your hearts out, and now, you rest in peace. God bless.

Note: Email us pics of your catches to share with our USA and international fishing friends who keep up with the latest fishing news and frequent social media.

For all things fishy including bait, swing by the shop (203-245-8665) open seven days located at 21 Boston Post Road, Madison. Until next time from your Connecticut shoreline’s full-service fishing outfitter, where we don’t make the fisherman, we make the fisherman better...

Tight Lines,

Captain Morgan

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